The new 2024/25 Seychelles Premier League season is almost here, and the schedule has finally been published. But many clubs and fans were angry because it seemed to take too long to release the calendar. We spoke with Michael Delpech, the Club Secretary of Saint Michel United and former Team Manager of the Seychelles national team, about the new schedule and football coming back to the La Digue Sports Complex.
Seysoccer: What are your thoughts on the Premier League fixture list and schedule that was just published, and do you feel it was released too late?
Michael Delpech: No issues regarding the timing of the release, but I think it’s not fair that some clubs/teams will play almost every Thursday or Friday. I know it’s not easy to produce a fixture list that everyone will be happy with, but I think they should do better.
Seysoccer: As a St. Michel football club member, are you concerned about the quality of play at La Digue Sports Complex, as some have said the field surface is still not good enough?
Michael Delpech: We don’t know anything about it. When football was stopped on La Digue, we were informed, but this time no one was informed about it. I mean, if the SFF or the government have decided to restart on La Digue, they should have informed the clubs.
Seysoccer: Do you think big games should be played on weekends to allow more fans to attend, spend money, and help clubs raise the quality of their teams?
Michael Delpech: We all are trying to get the spectators back to the venue, but playing big matches and derby matches on Wednesdays and Fridays does not work in anyone’s favor. It works in favor of other sports (volleyball, basketball, etc.).
Seysoccer: Will the Football Federation help clubs with travel for away games on La Digue and Praslin? Can you explain how that logistics works?
Michael Delpech: Normally, they do. I think it will continue, but I think you should contact them for a more concrete answer.
Seysoccer: Some clubs were upset last season about the experience and accommodations at Stad Amitie on Praslin island. How do you feel about that situation?
Michael Delpech: It’s the worst place to go. The thing is, we don’t know who is in charge (SFF or NSC).
Seysoccer: Has the Football Federation explained the accommodation arrangements for away games on La Digue island? Can you tell us how that will work?
Michael Delpech: We really don’t know anything about it. To be frank, I have not asked any questions yet, as we just learned about the fixtures yesterday. But playing a match on Friday and one on Saturday (the same weekend) will spoil the atmosphere. Can you imagine one weekend you have two matches on La Digue, and the same weekend you don’t have anything on Praslin, and when you have something on Praslin, you don’t have anything on La Digue? The Cat Coco is a real issue (Transfer).
Seysoccer: In your opinion, what could the Football Federation do to better communicate with the football community and address their concerns?
Michael Delpech: Consultation on a regular basis. It’s not an issue going to La Digue or Praslin, but the SFF should advise, and consultation is very important.
Seysoccer: As someone with a lot of experience in Seychelles football, what suggestions would you have to improve how the national league is organized and run?
Seysoccer: Seychelles Superleague. Semi-professional league for the top 10 clubs. Paying local players to play. Please ask the other clubs about this as well.
Michael Delpech is never one to hold back, always sharing his honest opinions based on his extensive football background. We look forward to speaking with him again in 2-3 weeks to discuss St. Michel United’s season expectations and transfer window activities. Thank you, Michael, for your time!
